The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded in 1909 by a diverse group of activists, including both African Americans and white allies. Key figures include:
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W.E.B. Du Bois - An influential African American scholar, writer, and civil rights activist, Du Bois was one of the founders and served as the editor of the NAACP's magazine, The Crisis.
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Marian Anderson - A prominent African American singer and civil rights advocate, she played a significant role in the organization's early activities.
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Ida B. Wells - A journalist and anti-lynching crusader, Wells was an early member and brought attention to issues of race and justice.
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Henry Moskowitz - A Jewish activist and social reformer who was instrumental in the founding of the NAACP.
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Charles Edward Russell - A journalist and advocate for social justice, Russell was involved in the early efforts to establish the NAACP.
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Jane Addams - A social reformer and leader in women's suffrage and peace movements, Addams was a notable white ally in the organization’s early days.
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Mary White Ovington - A white social worker and civil rights activist who was one of the co-founders and served on the NAACP’s board.
These individuals, among others, came together to address issues of racial discrimination and injustice, establishing the NAACP as a key organization in the civil rights movement.